Franklin, Tennessee – In a tragic incident over the weekend, court documents revealed that a teenager suspected of a deadly shooting used what he believed to be an unloaded AR-15 style rifle in Franklin, Tennessee. The Franklin Police Department responded to a call about a shooting on Hanson Drive on Saturday, May 25. The 911 caller indicated that he was taking the victim, identified as Lily Basil, to the hospital after she sustained a gunshot wound. The victim was later transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center but sadly succumbed to her injuries.
Witnesses at the scene recounted that the alleged shooter, 18-year-old Matthew Roufail, had left for Williamson County Medical Center. After being questioned by authorities, Roufail admitted to shooting the victim but insisted that he thought the gun was empty. The firearm, a .22 caliber rifle, was reportedly owned by the man who made the initial 911 call.
As the investigation unfolded, Roufail was arrested and charged with criminal homicide. The tragic loss of Lily Basil prompted the principal of Page High School, Dr. Katie Hill, to express condolences and remember Basil as a bright and kind member of the community. In honor of Basil, a celebration of life is scheduled to take place at Rolling Hills Church, followed by a community-led memorial event to honor her legacy and the light she brought into the lives of those around her.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting while the community mourns the loss of a promising young life in Franklin, Tennessee. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of mishandling firearms and the devastating impact it can have on families and communities.